Prime Medic's Blog
October is skin cancer awareness month, but do you know what to look out for?
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world due to its sunny climate and high number of residents with fair skin. We know that early intervention is extremely important when it comes to this and October is skin cancer awareness month, a time to educate people on the early signs of the condition and what to do if you notice something suspicious.
This blog will outline the main types of skin cancer, the signs of each and how you can get an early stage diagnosis.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
A non-melanoma form and the most common type of skin cancer, BCC often develops on areas such as the face, neck, ears and scalp which are frequently exposed to the sun. Skin cells here can mutate and begin to reproduce uncontrollably, due to overexposure to UV rays which has damaged the DNA in the cell.
BCC appears as a small, shiny, pearly bump on the skin which will often bleed easily if they are scratched. If this happens, the sore will be difficult to heal and may appear as a crusty lesion on a pinkish patch of skin.
Reach out to either an in-person or an online doctor if you notice anything that resembles this on your skin. After the initial consultation, the practitioner may decide to do a biopsy or make a referral to a specialist.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
SCC is another very common form of skin cancer, also caused by too much sun exposure. It originates when the squamous cells, which make up the outermost layer of the skin, begin to grow uncontrollably. If you’ve been frequently sunburnt, have fair skin, a weakened immune system or you were exposed to radiation, you could be at a higher risk of developing SCC.
SCC appears as a scaly, crusty or thickened nodule on the skin. The bump may be red, pink or brown in colour and will likely be tender to the touch. It also may bleed easily if scratched and form a crust that’s difficult to heal.
SCC grows quite quickly and as a result, there’s a high risk that it can spread to nearby lymph nodes or organs. As a result, contacting a healthcare professional is essential if you notice this type of lesion.
Both BCC and SCC are non-melanoma types of cancer and are the most commonly diagnosed in Australia; they can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
Melanoma
Melanocytes are cells that produce pigment called melanin which gives our skin and hair colour. Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer develops in these cells, and there are several types to watch out for. Superficial Spreading Melanoma (SSM), is characterised by a flat, irregularly shaped mole that slowly becomes raised.
Nodule Melanoma is another subtype that grows very rapidly, emphasising the importance of early stage intervention. It also begins with an elevated bump or nodule although it grows more rapidly.
An irregularly coloured, flat mole on an area of the skin that is commonly exposed to the sun could be an early sign of Lentigo Maligna Melanoma. Ensure you regularly check areas such as the face, neck and arms for this.
Acral Lentiginous Melanoma (ALM) is a subtype that is less related to UV exposure and researchers believe that pressure or trauma to the area may be a cause. Small, brown spots on the hands and feet are an early indication of ALM.
Diagnoses
The diagnosis of all types of skin cancer will typically begin with a GP consultation at either an in-person clinic or with an online doctor, such as Prime Medic. A number of our doctors have qualifications and special interests in dermatology and skin cancer, so speak to your practitioner about any lesions you may have noticed on your body as well as how they feel.
An online doctor may refer you to a specialised dermatologist who will conduct a physical exam and take a biopsy if necessary. This involves extracting a tiny sample of the affected tissue and examining it under a microscope.
The treatment for both BCC, SCC and melanoma is generally a surgical removal of the lesions, although treatments for the latter have developed enormously over recent years. Options include immunotherapy and targeted therapy.
How to check yourself for early signs
Wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, protective clothing and avoiding excessive sun exposure are key ways to prevent skin cancer. But you should also perform regular self-checks for any early signs.
Set up a stand-alone mirror in a well-lit room and remove any clothing that might obstruct your view. Grab a second, hand-held mirror and use this to check areas that are hard to see such as the back of the neck, elbows and ears. Keep an eye out for unusually shaped or pigmented moles, moles with a diameter >6mm or freckles with blurred, irregular edges.
Move down your body, inspecting your chest, shoulders, arms and armpits. Don’t forget to check your elbows and hands, including under your nails before moving on to your thighs, calves, ankles and feet, including the soles.
You should perform this ideally once a month to increase your chances of detecting skin cancer at an early and treatable stage. If you notice anything irregular contact an online doctor or head to a clinic as soon as possible.
